LIVING IN STRATA

Buying a strata property — whether it’s an apartment, townhouse or villa — is an attractive option for many NSW homebuyers. Strata living offers convenience, shared amenities, community living and access to desirable locations. But it also comes with unique legal, financial and lifestyle obligations  that differ from buying a standalone home. Understanding these before you sign on the dotted line can save you stress, unexpected costs and future disputes. 1. You are buying mor

Introduction As more people live in strata-titled buildings across NSW, sustainability is becoming a key concern — not just for the planet, but for your pocket. A collective building can benefit significantly when residents and committees adopt environmentally friendly practices. In this guide we explore how your Owners Corporation and residents can work together to reduce energy and water consumption without compromising comfort or lifestyle. Why sustainability matters in st

How smart technology is transforming strata living in NSW Strata living in NSW is evolving faster than ever. As buildings become more complex and residents expect more convenience, safety, and efficiency, smart technology is becoming a game-changer for Owners Corporations and Strata Committees. From automated access systems to energy-saving devices and digital reporting tools, technology is helping strata schemes run smoother, reduce costs, and improve the overall living expe

Navigating disputes in Strata - A committee's practical guide Disagreements are a normal part of community living, but in strata schemes, they can quickly escalate if not handled well. Whether it’s noise, parking, renovations or unpaid levies, committees play a key role in keeping the peace. In this guide, we explore practical steps your strata committee can take to manage disputes calmly, fairly and within NSW strata law. Common Strata Disputes in NSW Most disputes arise fro

What Are Strata Levies and Why Do We Pay Them? In a strata scheme, all owners contribute levies to ensure the ongoing management, maintenance, and long-term financial health of the building. Whether you own an apartment, townhouse, or a unit in a mixed-use building, levies are not optional – they are a legal requirement under NSW strata law. Understanding how these levies are calculated – and where the money goes – is key to protecting your investment and avoiding unexpected

Fire safety is everyone’s business Fire safety in strata buildings is more than a compliance requirement — it’s about protecting lives, property and peace of mind. Yet many residents aren’t sure who is responsible  for what, or how often inspections must occur. Here’s what every owner and tenant needs to know about fire safety compliance in NSW strata buildings. The owners corporation’s obligations Under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021 , the owners c

Why boundaries matter in strata living When something breaks or needs repair in a strata building, one of the first questions owners ask is: “Is that my responsibility — or the owners corporation’s?” Understanding the difference between common property  and lot property  is key to avoiding confusion, disputes, and unexpected bills. What is common property? Common property  includes everything in your strata scheme that isn’t part of an individual lot. It’s the shared areas an

Running a productive strata meeting can feel like herding cats — owners come with competing agendas, motions, questions, and sometimes...

If your strata manager isn’t responding, giving unhelpful advice, or seems to change from week to week, it may be time to review your...

Airbnb and other short-term rental platforms have exploded in popularity across Australia. For many property owners, it’s an attractive...

Parking might seem simple, but in a strata community, it’s often one of the most common causes of frustration. From blocked driveways to visitor parking woes, understanding the rules and knowing how to resolve issues can make life much smoother for everyone. At Centric Strata, we’ve helped countless schemes navigate parking disputes — and we’re here to share our expert advice so you can avoid unnecessary conflict and keep the peace in your building. Common Parking Issues in S

In many strata schemes, shared facilities like gyms, pools, BBQ areas, and function rooms are a big drawcard for owners and tenants. But...